Emergency Contraception – Consumer Health Info
What Is Emergency Contraception?
Emergency Contraception (EC) is a birth control method used after unprotected sex or when a primary form of contraception fails. It is generally used only in these specific situations and is not advised for use as regular contraception. It is also sometimes called “postcoital contraception.” EC is a contraceptive method that primarily works by either delaying ovulation or stopping implantation of a fertilized egg. It does not protect against sexually transmitted infections (STIs) and does not induce an abortion.
How Effective Is Emergency Contraception?
The chart compares the four types of EC and illustrates how effective they are as well as other things to consider when making a choice.
Emergency Contraception Type | Prescription required? | How long, after unprotected sex, is it effective? | Overall effectiveness | Things to consider |
---|---|---|---|---|
Levonorgestrel Pills | No | Within 1-3 days (most effective) but can be used up to 5 days after | 75-89% | Most effective for people who weigh under 155 pounds. Effective for people between 155-195 pounds. |
Ulipristal Pills | Yes | Within 5 days | 85% | Not the best option for people whose current hormonal method of birth control (like the pill, patch, or ring) may have failed. |
Oral Contraception Pills | Yes | Within 3 days | ~75% | Effectiveness varies based on the birth control that is going to be used as EC. |
Copper IUD | Yes; needs to be inserted by a doctor or nurse | Within 5 days | 99.9% | Once inserted, can serve as the primary birth control method for 10-12 years (or until removed); effectiveness is not impacted by weight. |
Additional Information on Emergency Contraception:
Emergency Contraception Pills
There are three types of EC pills available in the U.S. (they are also called “morning-after pills”). While each type of pill has its own pros and cons, it's important to never use two different kinds (like Plan B and ella) within 5 days of each other because the active ingredients may counteract one another and make the pills ineffective.
The second type is an EC pill that contains ulipristal, which prevents the egg's release, slows ovulation, and also thickens vaginal fluids so it's harder for sperm to reach the egg. This type of EC is sold under the brand names ella and ellaOne and requires a prescription. It is most effective when taken within 5 days of unprotected sex; unlike other EC pills, this type is just as effective for all 5 days (in other words, it doesn't become less effective over time). A person's weight has a big impact on this type of EC pill's effectiveness, and it is more effective than other EC pills for people who weigh 155 to 195 pounds. This type of EC does not work as well for people who weigh more than 195 pounds. The third type of EC pill is regular oral contraceptive pills that are taken in a larger number than usual. Oral contraception already includes hormones like levonorgestrel, so taking more than one pill at a time works as EC. The number of oral contraception pills to take in order for them to work as EC depends on the brand used. This chart lists the number of pills needed for an EC dose for many different brands of oral contraception.
This type of EC is less effective than the others and is more likely to cause nausea. Women should consult with a doctor, nurse, or family planning clinic before using this type of EC; oral contraception requires a prescription.
Copper IUD
Which One is Right for You?
Planned Parenthood has an online quiz that can help you figure out which type of EC makes the most sense for you.
Resources
Tools:
- Bedsider – Method Explorer
- Brooks – My Contraception Tool
- Planned Parenthood – Birth Control Information and Birth Control Quiz
Other Resources:
- The Mayo Clinic: a prestigious medical center with trustworthy medical information
- Planned Parenthood: a non-profit organization that does research into and gives advice on contraception, family planning, and reproductive health
- WebMD: a source of trustworthy medical news and information